Faux Finishing & Special Effects Techniques Flashcards

Which faux finishing technique involves applying a glaze and then removing portions of it with a bunched cloth to reveal the base coat?

Answer: Ragging off

Ragging off is a subtractive technique where wet glaze is lifted from the surface using a bunched rag, exposing the base coat beneath.

When creating a venetian plaster finish, which tool is most commonly used to apply and burnish the plaster to achieve a polished marble-like sheen?

Answer: Wide flat steel trowel

A wide flat steel trowel is used to apply venetian plaster in thin layers and burnish it under pressure to create the characteristic high-gloss, marble-like finish.

A decorative artist wants to simulate the look of aged limestone on a wall. Which base coat sheen level is most appropriate before applying the faux glaze layers?

Answer: Eggshell or satin

Eggshell or satin sheens provide a slight tooth for glaze adhesion while still allowing smooth blending, making them ideal for most faux stone finishes.

In faux finishing, what is 'open time' referring to?

Answer: The time a glaze remains workable before drying

Open time is the period during which a glaze or paint remains wet and workable, allowing the artist to manipulate it to achieve the desired decorative effect.

Which medium is typically added to latex paint to create a decorative glaze with extended open time?

Answer: Floetrol or a glazing liquid

Floetrol or purpose-made glazing liquids slow the drying of latex paint, extending its open time and improving flow and transparency for faux techniques.

What faux technique creates a soft, cloudy appearance by applying paint with a sea sponge in overlapping, irregular dabs?

Answer: Sponge painting

Sponge painting uses the irregular texture of a natural sea sponge to apply paint in overlapping dabs, creating a soft, mottled, cloudy effect on the surface.

When executing a dragged or 'dragging' finish, what determines the width and spacing of the linear striations in the glaze?

Answer: The type of brush or comb used

The type, width, and stiffness of the brush or comb dragged through the glaze directly determines the width, spacing, and character of the linear striations.